LCRB Releases Liquor Licensing Guide for FIFA World Cup 2026™
– Temporary Licence Changes Available for Eligible BC Liquor Licensees

On February 6, weeks after declining BC liquor industry requests to streamline the process for extending liquor service hours during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch published a Liquor Licensing Guide for FIFA World Cup 2026™. The guide outlines how eligible BC liquor licensees can apply for temporary license changes that would be effective during the tournament period of June 11 to July 19, 2026.

Extensions are not automatically granted. Licensees must apply and receive approval before operating outside their existing licence terms.

Key highlights from the temporary liquor licensing guide

• Who can apply
  Food Primary, Liquor Primary, Manufacturer and Special Event Permit holders.
• Application deadline
  Requests must be submitted through the LCRB portal by March 31, 2026.
• Temporary liquor license extensions available
  • Extended liquor service hours
  • Temporary expansion of licensed areas, including patios
  • Patron participation approvals
  • Temporary amendments to specific licence terms or conditions
• Local and Indigenous government review
  Some changes to a Food Primary, Liquor Primary or Manufacturer licence must be referred to the local government or Indigenous Nation. Please consult the provincial guide for details.
• Ongoing obligations
  All responsible service requirements, safety standards, and existing licence conditions remain in effect. Approved FIFA World Cup liquor license changes count toward the annual limit of six temporary changes.

Liquor licensees planning to take advantage of these measures should review the full provincial guide and submit applications well in advance of the March 31 deadline.

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